Plans for a new inclusive playground and recreational space in Renmore have been lodged with Galway City Council, with members of the public invited to have their say on the proposed development before December 17.
The proposed Renmore Play Area, titled Tír na bPáistí Óga, is planned for Renmore Avenue and aims to provide a welcoming and accessible outdoor space where children of all ages and abilities can play, explore and socialise.
The Part 8 planning application was submitted on November 6, marking an important step forward for the project, which forms part of the wider Renmore Neighbourhood Park Project.
The proposed development includes a range of play facilities and community amenities, with an emphasis on accessibility, biodiversity and improved connections within the neighbourhood.
Among the features outlined in the plans are accessible play equipment, dedicated areas for toddlers, nature-based play opportunities, sensory features and quieter spaces. The design also aims to cater for children with different abilities and needs, creating an environment where everyone can enjoy outdoor recreation.
Greener elements will form an important part of the development, with proposals for native planting, wildflower meadows and other biodiversity enhancements. Seating, picnic areas, bicycle parking and public lighting are also included.
Pedestrian and cycle routes
The plans additionally provide for a new off-road pedestrian and cycle route, improved pedestrian crossings and better connections to surrounding facilities, with the aim of making the area safer and more accessible for residents and visitors.
The proposed design follows an extensive public consultation process carried out between January 2025 and April 2026. Approximately 930 people attended public engagement events, while more than 1,300 survey responses were received.
Feedback indicated strong community support for improved play facilities, with 89 per cent of survey respondents supporting the development of a new playground. Renmore Avenue was identified as the preferred location by 61 per cent of respondents.
Galway City Council said the feedback received during the consultation process played an important role in shaping the proposed design and layout.
The Part 8 application is now available for public inspection, with residents and interested parties encouraged to examine the plans and make submissions or observations before the deadline.
Documents can be viewed online through the council’s public planning portal at https://files.galwaycity.ie/pub-part8/ or in person at the Planning Office, Galway City Council, City Hall, College Road.
The plans will be available for inspection until Thursday, December 3, with the Planning Office open from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 4pm, excluding bank holidays.
Submissions can be made through the online portal, by email to [email protected] or by post to the Senior Planner, Planning Department, Galway City Council, City Hall, College Road, Galway.
The closing date for submissions is 4pm on Thursday, December 17, 2026.
The project represents an opportunity to provide a new community amenity in Renmore, encouraging outdoor activity while creating a more inclusive and connected neighbourhood.
The Part 8 process allows members of the public to examine and comment on certain development proposals brought forward by local authorities. Following the consultation period, submissions and observations will be considered alongside technical reports and the formal recommendation before a decision is made by the elected members of Galway City Council.
Elected members can approve the proposal, introduce modifications or attach conditions after considering the material presented to them.
The project was brought to the planning stage on behalf of Galway City Council by a team including MKO, LUC, PUNCH Engineers, Quinn Architects, Moloney Fox, ACSU, Arbor Care Professional Consulting Tree Service and TC Estimating Services.
If approved, Tír na bPáistí Óga would add a significant new recreational facility to Renmore, providing children and families with a dedicated space to play, spend time outdoors and connect with their local community.
Residents are encouraged to review the proposals and submit their views before the December 17 deadline.
